Military travel offers service members and their families a unique opportunity to explore new places at lower costs.
For those looking to take advantage of these benefits, signing up is the first step. To get started with military travel, fill out the Space-A Travel Registration Form provided by the Air Mobility Command.
alt=”A soldier in uniform at a military travel desk, filling out paperwork with a pen, while a travel agent assists”>
Once registered, travelers can access various perks like discounted hotel rooms, cruise packages, and car rentals through American Forces Travel.
This platform offers savings of up to 50% on hotels and 80% on cruises, making it easier for military families to plan affordable trips.
When preparing for Space-A flights, it’s smart to pack essentials like a small sleeping bag, pillow, and blankets.
These items can make the journey more comfortable, especially on military cargo planes that might not offer the same amenities as commercial flights.
Key Takeaways
- Signing up for military travel involves filling out an online registration form
- American Forces Travel offers significant discounts on various travel services
- Packing comfort items can enhance the Space-A flight experience
Getting Started with Military Travel
Military travel involves specific steps and requirements.
The Defense Travel System helps manage official trips for service members and DoD civilians.
Understanding the Basics
The Defense Travel System (DTS) is a web-based platform for booking and managing official travel.
It’s used by military members and Department of Defense (DoD) civilian personnel.
DTS helps users follow travel policies and get approvals.
It also handles reimbursements for trips.
To start using DTS, you’ll need to create an account.
This involves setting up a profile with your personal and job-related info.
Once your profile is ready, you can access the DTS dashboard.
Here, you’ll find tools for planning trips, submitting travel requests, and tracking expenses.
Eligibility and Requirements
To use military travel services, you must be an active duty service member, reservist, or DoD civilian employee.
Family members may also be eligible in some cases.
A key requirement is having a valid Common Access Card (CAC).
This card lets you log into DTS and other DoD systems.
You’ll also need a government-issued passport for international travel.
Some trips may require extra clearances or paperwork.
Before booking, check the Joint Travel Regulations (JTR).
These rules cover travel allowances, rates, and reimbursement policies.
DTS offers training resources to help new users.
You can practice using the system in a safe environment called the Enterprise Web Training System.
Signing Up and Managing Your Travel
Getting set up for military travel involves a few key steps.
You’ll need to create accounts, get a travel card, and learn to use online tools.
These steps help make your travel smoother.
Creating Your Account
To start, you’ll need to set up a Defense Travel System (DTS) account.
This is where you’ll book trips and manage travel plans.
Here’s what to do:
- Go to the DTS website.
- Click on “New User Registration.”
- Fill out your personal info and create a username and password.
- Wait for approval from your unit’s travel manager.
Once approved, you can log in and start using DTS.
It’s a good idea to explore the system a bit.
Try looking up some travel policies or checking out per diem rates for different areas.
Travel Card and Citimanager
Next, you’ll need a government travel card.
This card is for official travel expenses.
Here’s the process:
- Ask your unit’s travel card program manager for an application.
- Fill it out and submit it.
- Once approved, you’ll get your card in the mail.
After getting your card, set up a Citimanager account.
This online tool lets you view your card’s account balance and transactions.
It’s important to keep an eye on your spending and pay your bill on time.
Integrating Online Tools
The military uses several online tools for travel.
Learning to use these makes travel easier.
Here are the main ones:
- DTS: For booking trips and filing travel claims
- TRAX: Offers training videos on how to use DTS
- Citimanager: For managing your travel card
Try to get familiar with each tool.
DTS has a practice mode where you can try things out without making real bookings.
TRAX videos are short and easy to follow.
Spend some time clicking around Citimanager to learn where everything is.
Frequently Asked Questions
Military travel involves various programs and benefits for service members, veterans, and retirees.
These programs have specific rules and requirements that can be confusing.
Here are some common questions about military travel options.
What documents do I need to register for Space-A flights?
To register for Space-A flights, military members need a valid military ID card.
They also must bring their leave papers or orders.
Dependents require a valid military dependent ID and a sponsor’s approval letter.
How can I find military hop flight schedules?
Military hop flight schedules are posted at passenger terminals.
Many bases also share schedules on their Facebook pages.
Some third-party websites compile this info, but official sources are most reliable.
What are the requirements for military travel discounts for retirees?
Retirees can get travel discounts with a valid military retiree ID card.
Many hotels, airlines, and car rental companies offer these discounts.
Retirees should always ask about military rates when booking travel.
Can veterans utilize Space-A flights, and if so, how?
Veterans with a service-connected disability can use Space-A flights.
They need a DD Form 2765 (Veteran Health Identification Card) or a DD Form 1173 (Guard or Reserve ID card).
Veterans must be in Category 6 for Space-A travel.
What’s the process to access American Forces Travel benefits?
To use American Forces Travel, eligible members must create an account on the official website.
They’ll need to verify their military status.
Once approved, they can book discounted travel through the platform.
Are there any costs associated with Space-A travel for service members?
Space-A flights are generally free for service members.
However, some terminals may require them to pay small fees.
These fees cover things like security or customs.
On some flights, food and baggage fees might also apply.